With just two games left in the season, the Gibson Cup is within reach, and Glentoran striker Pat Hoban admits his team would have "snapped your hand off" for this opportunity back in a difficult November. The stage is set for a monumental clash this Friday night as the Glens travel to face league leaders Larne, a match that could see them draw level on points at the summit.

It’s a stunning turnaround for Declan Devine’s squad. After a rocky start that saw just one win in four league games last autumn, they’ve mounted a relentless nine-game unbeaten run to surge back into title contention, chasing their first league crown since 2009. "We had a bad November and it left us a bit behind, but we clawed it back and we stuck together," Hoban told BBC Sport NI. "The group has gone up levels the last couple of months."

Momentum is firmly on their side following a commanding 5-0 victory over Dungannon Swifts last weekend, a result that also pulled their goal difference level with Larne's. However, a significant hurdle remains: Glentoran have yet to defeat their title rivals in four attempts across all competitions this season. "We haven’t beaten them so far this season, so it’s going to be a cracking game," Hoban acknowledged, emphasizing the need for a focused and fearless approach.

For Hoban, who joined the east Belfast club from Derry City last summer, the chance to deliver silverware in his debut season is a powerful motivator. He describes Glentoran as a "sleeping giant" hungry for success. As the final whistle of the season approaches, the message from the squad is clear. "We’ve given ourselves a chance," Hoban stated, "and we have to look forward now." The title race is alive, and Friday night promises a showdown filled with drama and determination.